With clocks about to spring forward an hour on Sunday, 5 October 2025, it’s a good idea to check that you, your house and outside are ready for the approaching summer months. Our cover photo is from Lane Cove local Instagrammer Stephtee, who captured a brilliant pink daylight saving summer night in January 2025.
Daylight starts at 2am, Eastern Daylight Saving Time on Sunday 5 October 2025. Clocks will be put forward one hour (so you “lose one hour).
We will have longer days until Sunday, 6 April 2026, when the clocks are moved back by an hour and you “gain” an hour.
Tip One – Some Clocks Don’t Automatically Update So Adjust Before You To Bed
Your mobile phone will automatically update, but some watches and household clocks don’t (like microwaves and ovens have to be manually reset) – adjust all your clocks and appliances before you go to bed on Sunday, 5 October, so that you don’t miss an appointment in the morning because you are looking at the wrong time
Tip Two – Don’t Miss an Appointment Because You Slept In
A few days before Daylight Saving Time starts, adjust your sleeping habits. Go to bed 15 minutes earlier or wake up 15 minutes earlier to make the transition a bit easier.
Tip Three – Get used to a Few Darker Mornings
Morning will be darker in the first weeks of daylight saving. So, if you are an early bird, take extra care when walking, driving, or cycling.
Tip Four – Check Your Smoke Detectors
When you change your clocks, check your smoke alarm. It’s as simple as pressing a button. Don’t risk it; test it.
Fire and Rescue NSW Station 061 Lane Cove offers a free inspection service and will install smoke detectors at no cost if they believe your home needs them.
They also provide excellent advice. In particular, most fires start due to cheap appliances from overseas that don’t meet Australian Standards and people walking away while cooking.
They also advise against leaving your house when the dryer is on (and always clean the lint filter), and never leaving the house when the oven is on.
You can call them on 02 9493 1061 or sign up online – see our article for more details.
Tip 5 – Outside the House: Get Ready for Summer Storms
Check roofs and gutters to ensure they are well-maintained and clear of debris and leaf litter for the storm and fire season. Also, check that your downpipes and external drains are not blocked or covered. A list of local tradies to help you to do this is here.
Trim overhanging branches and remove dead or dying trees to reduce the likelihood of damage during storms. Check with Lane Cove Council about their rules around pruning trees.
The majority of calls to the Willoughby – Lane Cove SES during periods of significant rain are often due to roof and gutter issues caused by poor maintenance. The risk to your property can be reduced by being proactive and prepared.
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